The Side Effects of CBD Oil in Dogs

CBD oil has been used by humans for centuries and has recently become a very popular treatment for a variety of medical conditions. CBD oil is known to ease anxiety, depression, and seizures, along with physical conditions such as cancer symptoms, pain, inflammation, and arthritis. Not only is CBD oil effective in humans, it has been known to treat these same conditions in dogs as well. As there isn’t as much research conducted on the relationship between CBD oil and dogs, there is little known on how exactly it affects them and what side effects it might cause. Some dog owners report a noticeable change in symptoms after giving their dogs CBD oil, while others report no change. Our four-legged friends are like family and we want to give them the best treatment for their ailments, so it’s important to do your research before giving them CBD oil, as there can be some side effects of CBD oil in dogs.

What is CBD Oil?

CBD is one of the chemical compounds found in the Cannabis plant. These chemical compounds are called cannabinoids. Although CBD oil is taken from the Cannabis or Hemp plant, CBD oil does not contain the Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) chemical – the psychoactive chemical that produces a “high”. The THC chemical is removed during the process of making the CBD oil, which is why it’s safe for medical use. 

Uses for CBD Oil in Dogs

There are many medical conditions that can be treated in dogs by using CBD oil, though there isn’t much research to provide concrete results. Just as humans do, dogs can suffer from the same kinds of medical conditions.  

Anxiety

It’s been proven that dogs suffer from anxiety just like we do. There are many reasons why dogs can experience anxiety, with the most common being separation anxiety, trauma, illness induced and generalized anxiety.

Arthritis

CBD oil has similar metabolic pathways as anti-inflammatory drugs, so it’s useful in treating inflammatory conditions in dogs such as arthritis. 

Seizures

Although there is little research on CBD oil treatment for seizures in dogs, it’s believed to reduce the frequency of seizures happening. 

Cancer

CBD oil can be used to not only treat tumours directly but to treat the symptoms caused by these tumours. As dogs can suffer from cancer, CBD oil can be effective in easing their symptoms. 

Possible risks and side effects

Due to the minor research conducted on how CBD oil affects dogs, there are some risks involved with using it. It’s unknown whether dogs that are given CBD oil experience a difference in their conditions. There’s no exact way to be sure if the CBD oil actually eases their conditions or if it just causes them to not care. The correct dosage to give your dog isn’t regulated, and that may cause some side effects if they are dosed with too much CBD oil. Some side effects include dry mouth, lowered blood pressure, drowsiness, tremors, and disorientation. 

Dry Mouth

If your dog is experiencing the side effect of dry mouth, you may notice your dogs’ water intake increasing.

Tremors

Tremors may be present if a high dosage of CBD oil has been given to your dog. Tremors should be cause for concern as they may occur due to another condition.

Lowered Blood Pressure

Low blood pressure can become an issue if not treated. Make sure to have regular check-ups with your vet.

Drowsiness 

If you have given your dog CBD oil, be sure to take notice of their sleeping patterns. Their sleeping patterns may change if they’re experiencing drowsiness, though this symptom should clear up on its own. 

Disorientation

You may notice your dog losing their balance, unsteady gait, bumping into things, falling over or tilting their head. These could all be signs of disorientation. 

Overall, CBD oil is safe to give to your dog as a treatment for medical conditions, but make sure to be aware of any side effects it may cause. It is important to begin with small doses and keep track of them. You should let your vet know that your dog is taking CBD oil, and to take your dog for regular check-ups.